Therapeutic measure

Swiss criminal law distinguishes penalties from measures. A therapeutic measure is ordered when an offender’s mental disorder, addiction, or developmental condition is relevant to the offence and treatment is expected to reduce future risk. It may be inpatient or outpatient and is subject to judicial ordering and periodic review. The measure focuses on treatment and public safety rather than retribution, though it may involve substantial deprivation of liberty. It can interact with, replace, or accompany a custodial sentence depending on the case.